Stay informed with the LNN Daily Newsletter

U of L’s 50th Anniversary Events Promise To Focus On Community

Dec 11, 2016 | 11:15 AM

LETHBRIDGE – The University of Lethbridge will turn 50 years old next year, and to celebrate activities are planned to spark a sense of nostalgia and promote a bright future.  

In a media release, Dr. Mike Mahon, U of L president and vice-chancellor said that the school looks forward to celebrating this milestone in our history with the community of Lethbridge and southern Alberta. “Fifty years ago, our University began as a vision held within the hearts of many southern Albertans. Fifty years later, I’d say that vision has materialized. Today, the U of L is widely recognized as one of Canada’s top-ranked universities and a leading research institution.”

The 2017 year will be filled with special events and activities. First on the calendar is the Founders’ Day Weekend on Jan. 13 and 14.

As part of Founders’ Day, the U of L will announce some of the special initiatives and activities planned for the year, said Chris Horbachewski, vice-president of University Advancement and co-chair of the U of L’s 50th anniversary committee.

The Founders’ Day Weekend begins at noon on Friday, Jan. 13 with a free barbecue lunch for the first 800 guests, complete with a birthday cake. John Wort Hannam (BA/BEd ’96), songwriter and musician, will premiere the U of L’s 50th anniversary song.

The U of L tartan will be unveiled and a special U of L label for a locally made beer will be revealed. A variety of additional projects will also be announced.

Other highlights include themed campus tours, indoor tailgate parties, Pronghorn games, Frost Fest and the True North Cabaret on Saturday night, featuring the talents of Wort Hannam, the Groove Apostles and The Blue.